Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park, established in 1973, is Nepal's first national park and was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1984. Covering an area of 932 square kilometers in the subtropical lowlands of south-central Nepal, it represents one of the last undisturbed vestiges of the 'Terai' region, which once extended across the foothills of India and Nepal.

The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife. It shelters one of the largest populations of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros in the world, estimated at around 600 individuals. It also provides habitat for the elusive Bengal tiger, wild elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and various species of deer and monkeys. The park's rivers, including the Narayani, Rapti, and Reu, are home to gharial and marsh mugger crocodiles and the Gangetic dolphin.

Chitwan is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 500 species of birds, including the critically endangered Bengal florican, the giant hornbill, and several species of kingfishers, flycatchers, and woodpeckers.

Visitors to Chitwan can engage in various activities to experience the park's biodiversity. Jeep safaris and guided walks offer opportunities to spot wildlife, while canoe rides along the rivers provide a different perspective of the park's ecosystem. Elephant breeding centers and the Tharu Cultural Museum offer insights into conservation efforts and the indigenous Tharu culture.

The best time to visit Chitwan is from October to March when the weather is dry and mild. During the monsoon season (June to September), parts of the park may be inaccessible due to flooding, but the lush vegetation and fewer tourists can make for a unique experience.